The Ridges Sanctuary, Protected natural area in Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin
The Ridges Sanctuary is a protected natural area in Door County that covers more than 1,600 acres and features a diverse landscape shaped by 30 distinct ridges and swales. These natural formations create different habitats, ranging from open beaches to dense conifer forests, supporting a wide variety of plant and animal life.
The sanctuary was established in 1937 and became Wisconsin's first land trust organization, starting with just 30 acres. Over the decades, it expanded to protect one of the state's most ecologically diverse ecosystems.
The nature center here runs regular programs and workshops that help visitors understand why this landscape matters for wildlife and plant life. The way people spend time on the trails shows how this place has become important for reconnecting with the natural world.
The trails are open from dawn to dusk, with accessible facilities and adaptive equipment available for visitors with mobility challenges. It is wise to wear sturdy shoes and bring clothing suited to the season, since weather near the coast can change quickly.
The area is home to around 500 plant species, including 29 different types of orchids that are rarely found in such concentration. It also provides crucial habitat for the rare Hine's Emerald dragonfly, an insect found only in a few regions of North America.
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